The Defence Headquarters has launched a probe after a video of soldiers having a dialogue with bandits somewhere in Katsina State went viral on social media.
Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, who noted that the military high command was aware of the resolve of some bandits to repent and hand over their weapons to the authorities, said the probe would ascertain the authenticity of the clips as regards the soldiers seen in uniform.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, also assured Nigerians that the military would “engage in every lawful means possible to ensure peace and stability reign in our dear nation.
The statement read;
“The DHQ assures Nigerians that its non-kinetic measures aimed at restoration of peace are yielding results, with several bandits and other criminal elements surrendering to authority.
“Governments at all levels are encouraged to allow bandits genuinely willing to surrender to do so while the window is still open.
“The DHQ is doing everything possible to restore peace and tranquility all over the country and urge all citizens to remain calm and be law-abiding.”